A bright beam of sunlight streamed through the window, forcing me awake. Today marked the beginning of my new school life. Without wasting a moment, I got out of bed, dressed swiftly, and made my way to the nearest tavern for a quick breakfast as the inn I'm currently staying at is packed.
The morning air was crisp, carrying the distant hum of a bustling marketplace. Merchants called out their wares, the clatter of carts echoed through the streets, and the aroma of freshly baked bread mingled with the scent of morning dew. It was a peaceful walk—one undisturbed by unnecessary interactions, save for the occasional passerby rushing to their own destinations.
After ten minutes, I arrived at my destination. The academy stood before me, a towering structure of cobblestone and marble, resembling a castle more than an institution of learning. Its grand architecture exuded authority, its very presence a testament to centuries of knowledge and discipline.
Evercrest Academy–Renowned across the land, the academy stands as the pinnacle of education, forging individuals into the finest warriors, mages, and adventurers. With a staggering 99% success rate, nearly every graduate secures a prosperous and well-established future. The academy's rigorous training rivals even the trials faced by A-rank adventurers, pushing students beyond their limits to prepare them for the harsh realities of the world.
Such excellence, however, comes at a price. Backed by the king's unwavering support and substantial investment, the institution spares no effort in crafting an experience so intense that only the most resilient endure. Many students, unable to withstand the academy's relentless demands, abandon their training within months, never making it to their final year.
As I stepped forward, a figure darted past me in a blur—his pace frantic, as if he were fleeing from something unseen. He paid no mind to my presence, nor did he seem aware of the world around him.
What was that about?
Shrugging off the encounter, I made my way inside. Since I had transferred midyear, I was required to meet with my assigned teacher in the faculty lounge before being introduced to the class.
I knocked lightly on the door. "Teacher, may I come in?"
Silence.
After a moment, I pushed the door open. "Excuse me," I muttered.
The room was empty, save for a single figure slumped over a desk. Papers were scattered across the table in careless stacks, some half-crumpled, others marked with hurried annotations. My gaze drifted to the woman sleeping amidst the chaos—her elegant features relaxed, her breathing steady, as if she had momentarily escaped whatever burden weighed upon her shoulders.
I hesitated before calling out. "Teach—"
But something caught my eye.
What's this?
Among the scattered sheets lay a document titled "Judgment of the Gods." My curiosity got the better of me, and I skimmed through its contents.
---
**Long ago, mankind dwelled upon this world in fragile peace—until chaos descended. From the unknown emerged beings of immense power, human in appearance yet radiating an aura beyond mortal comprehension. These entities offered salvation in exchange for servitude, and with no other choice, mankind submitted.
For generations, these beings were revered as gods, their statues raised in worship, their names etched into history.
Yet, nothing lasts forever. Promises fade. Faith wanes.Their statues and history is nothing more than just stories. And when belief crumbles, retribution follows.
A month ago, calamity struck. From the depths of the underworld, horrors emerged, ambushing civilization without warning. Though humanity fought back and triumphed, the cost was steep.
Was this a mere disaster? Or was it… a warning?**
---
Before I could read further, the paper was snatched from my grasp.
"M-Morning, Chàros. How are you?" The woman before me, now fully awake, spoke with forced cheer, hurriedly shuffling the documents away.
"I'm fine, thank you."
She eyed me warily. "How much did you read?"
"Something about mankind and—"
"Ah! The time! I'm late for class!"
In a flurry of movement, she straightened her clothes and combed through her wavy hair with her fingers before hastily beckoning me forward. "Let's go!"
"Okay."
We walked briskly through the halls, but as curiosity gnawed at me, I finally asked, "Teacher, do you believe in gods?"
She hesitated. It was brief but noticeable.
"Gods, huh..." she sighed. "I'm not sure, I mean we have statues of them. Why'd you asked?"
Her answer intrigued me, so I pressed further. "Let me rephrase—do you think the beings we now worship are truly divine?"
She fell silent, deep in thought.
"You're asking a strange question for a kid." She said in amusement.
"Whether they are or not, it's best not to involve yourself in such matters." I advised her."At the very least, I wouldn't."
She smiled as if telling me not to worry."Is that so?" She glanced at me and shrugged off her thoughts.
"Chàros, was it?" she inquired, her voice smooth, yet edged with calculation.
"Yes," I replied.
A faint smile tugged at her lips—not warmth, but something closer to amusement. "I must admit, your words are rather intriguing. Not quite what I'd expect from someone of the lower caste." Her gaze flickered, then she straightened her posture. "But do remember—during school hours, you'll address me as Miss Eldermoon, or simply Miss." The deflection was deliberate, her tone composed but firm.
The topic appears to be sensitive so she deliberately changed the topic. I didn't press the matter. It wasn't my intention to indulge in her business—I was just a bit curious. So I let her steer the conversation, offering her the courtesy she demanded.
"My apologies," I said, inclining my head slightly. "I'll keep that in mind."
She gave a dismissive nod, feigning nonchalance. "Not that it's a serious matter..." Her voice trailed off as she looked above at the sign. "It appears we've arrived."
We arrived at the classroom, and she instructed me to wait outside while she addressed the students. Through the door, I heard the murmur of voices fade as she entered, followed by a formal greeting. Moments later, she called for me.
"You may come in." Miss Eldermoon called for me.
I drew a slow breath, steadying myself before crossing the threshold. A flicker of nervousness rose in my chest—quiet, but insistent. The walls beyond held centuries of tradition, expectations, and eyes trained to notice the unfamiliar. It was my first time setting foot inside an academy of this kind, and the fact that I was arriving midyear only sharpened the sense of being an intruder. Every step forward felt like trespassing into a story already well underway.
Stepping inside, I was met with a sea of unfamiliar faces, all gazing at me with varying expressions—curiosity, indifference, mild surprise.
Then, a student near the back of the room suddenly stood.
"You're—"
I recognized him immediately. He was the same frantic figure from this morning.
"Is something wrong, Eugene?" Thalassa—no, Miss Eldermoon—asked.
The boy's expression darkened, and he slowly sat back down in embarrassment. "...No, please continue."
"Very well. You may begin." Miss Eldermoon gestured me to start.
With her encouragement, I introduced myself, briefly scanning the room as I spoke. Eugene, however, seemed particularly restless. He had questions, but he hesitated to voice them.
"Goodmorning everyone, my name is Chàros. I look forward to having classes with you all." I glance at Miss Eldermoon ensuring this much is enough but she seems unsatisfied with my introduction just now.
"Chàros, can you elaborate on where you live as well?And maybe you're hobby too." Miss Eldermoon insisted.
I can't grasp her intention behind that mask but nevertheless she'd mean no harm.
"Very well." I nodded slightly,"I lived in the town district C near a pharmacy. I am a traveller, so I love travelling but due to various reason I was required to get a guild card that requires graduating from this academy. So here I am."
"Interesting... Does anyone have questions?" She asked the students for their opinion.
The teacher opened chances for questions but no one raised one. Then, just as I was about to be assigned to my seat, he abruptly stood again. "Wait! I have a question!"
I turned my attention towards him expectantly.
"Did you, by any chance, partake in the battle against the monsters during last month's incident?"
His words sent a ripple through the classroom. A glance at Miss Eldermoon revealed a flicker of surprise—she hadn't expected this.
Last month incident? Is he perhaps talking about that?Sensing Eldermoon's reaction, it must be it but I have no connection to it.
Feigning ignorance, I tilted my head. "I recently moved here a week ago, so I'm not exactly sure I know the details. Is there anything you want to know in particular?"
"No it's nothing."Disappointment flashed across Eugene's face as he sat back down.
What was that about?
"Is there any other?" She asked again.
I'm seriously not sure what her intention is but it would appear I won't be assigned to my seat anytime soon if this keeps on continuing. Luckily-no rather not many want to know anything about me.
"It seems there's no more questions. Very well then, Chàros you may sit behind Eugene."
Miss Eldermoon didn't chose that seat because Eugene seemed to opened up to me but rather it's the only seat available.
Thus, my first lesson at the academy began.
---
Lunchtime arrived swiftly, and I found solace beneath the shade of a tree, enjoying my meal in solitude. The quiet hum of academy life surrounded me, distant conversations blending into a meaningless murmur.
But solitude never lasts.
A shadow loomed over me, blocking the sun's warmth.
A tall, well-built young man with golden hair and striking blue eyes approached, his expression bright with confidence. A girl with silver hair peeked out from behind him, her gaze shy but curious.
The well built youngman was no other than...
"Do you have a moment?" he asked.
I remained silent, waiting for him to introduce himself.
"Ah, my apologies. My name is Eugene Elowen, and this is Livia Isis." He laughed awkwardly."Sorry for interrupting."
"It's okay." I responded, shaking his outstretched hand. "What do you want to talk about?"
Eugene wasted no time. "Well, the thing is from next week, the academy is planning on hosting a Multi-Concept Carnival—an event that blends magic, physical prowess, and strategy. And we need a fifth member for our team."
"I see but are you sure about this?" I asked.
Eugene hesitated before sighing. "If you're wondering why we're recruiting someone with no known magical abilities… well, we're out of options. And Livia insisted on recruiting you."
He could have said he had no other choice and I was their last resort, yet instead, he hesitated and reluctantly credited someone else for the suggestion.
I glanced at Livia, who instinctively shrank behind Eugene, peeking at me like a child hiding behind a guardian.
Is it intuition?
"If you're okay with it, then I don't mind," I said. "But how did you figure out I have no magical abilities?"
I don't remember mentioning it during my introduction.
"Isn't it obvious? I mean... there's not a trace of mana in your body."
That's right, I forgot that those that possess mana can sense other mana. But there are also history of completely erasing one's mana presence. Nevertheless it's a completely normal deduction.
"I see, fair enough."
Eugene gave a brief rundown in a more in-depth explanation. The competition would challenge various skills—magic, physical ability, and intellect. The specifics, however, remained a secret."...so can I confirm you're joining our team?"
"I have no problem with it but are you really sure about this?" I asked again for clarification.
Eugene grinned. "Great! I'll inform the others. See you later!"
He completely ignored my question. I guess that means he's willing.
As he left, Livia lingered for a moment muttering something to herself, watching me before finally retreating after him.
"What was that about?" I muttered to myself.
I picked up the bacon on my plate using the two sticks that was provided and gobble it up returning to the old atmosphere.
"An event, huh."
Something that contributes to our student credits, yet I wasn't informed about it when I applied for admission. If I were to break down the possible activities, it's likely that the event heavily involves magical performance. However, considering the wide range of activities in a festival like this, there's a chance that at least one event could play to my strengths.
Even if the competitions are primarily magic-based, I might still be able to participate with the aid of a magical tool—assuming they aren't banned or it could just be part of the event that it's a secret. That said, Can I really do something that's beneficial?… thinking about it won't change anything. For now, I'll just wait for the official announcement.
For an Event that's going to be conducted next week, there sure are a few details known.
I stood up after finishing my lunch and decided to head back inside. On my way, I stumbled upon two students who had drawn the attention of many. Curious, I decided to check them out.
"I was here first!" a red-haired guy shouted, pointing an accusing finger at the other student.
The other guy scoffed, standing his ground. "It's not about who got here first. She's the one to decide."
They glared at each other, teeth clenched, as if locked in an intense showdown.
"Fine!" The red hair guy agreed, both for them turn their backs on each other.
The girl they were fighting over appeared to be an elf—a race known for their skill and experience. No wonder they were so desperate to recruit her.
She looked nervous, clearly uncomfortable with the situation. Trying to diffuse the tension, she hesitantly suggested, "How about you settle this with rock, paper, scissors?" She smiled awkwardly not knowing how to turn them down.
Both guys paused, then exchanged glances.
"Huh?" they said in unison before the red-haired one smirked. "That's not a bad idea."
"Alright then!"
They put some distance between themselves, locking eyes as if preparing for a real battle. Strangely, they were standing much farther apart than necessary for a simple game.
"I hope you're ready!" the red-haired guy shouted.
"Rock... Paper... Rock!"
Instead of a simple hand gesture, he cast a spell. A magic circle materialized in the air, and several fist-sized stones shot toward his opponent.
The other guy cast the same spell, his own rocks colliding with the first. The two attacks nullified each other, but neither was willing to back down.
"Paper!"
"Scissors!"
"Paper!"
"Rock!"
The match continued, each spell countering the other in an endless back-and-forth.
"Shouldn't we stop them?" A girl beside me murmured, giving an ear to her friend.
Elaris looked increasingly worried—this was clearly not what she had intended.
"Is this really rock, paper, scissors?" I wondered to myself. It's different from what I remembered. Judging by her expression, she was thinking the same thing.
Her worried expression read, "What have I done?"
Then, the battle reached its climax. The red-haired guy conjured a stronger rock spell, but as his opponent attempted to match it, his magic circle suddenly shattered. His spell was canceled, leaving him defenseless.
The stones hurtled toward him. However, at the last second, something altered their trajectory—sending them straight toward Elaris.
What was that!?
Gasps rippled through the crowd as the elf barely managed to duck in time, avoiding the attack.
But before anyone could breathe a sigh of relief, the impact from the spells had caused part of a nearby building to collapse. Large chunks of debris tumbled down, right toward Elaris.
"Look out!" someone from the crowd screamed.
The three of them looked up—but it was too late. There was no time for them to react. The falling rubble would crush her.
Or so everyone thought.
A cloud of dust filled the air, obscuring everything. People coughed and squinted, trying to see through the thick smoke.
"What happened?"
"What's going on?"
"Are they alright?"
"Is she alright?"
I could hear everyone gossiping.
"Elaris! Are you okay?!" the two guys called out, frantically searching for her.
Then, with a single graceful movement, the dust was swept away, revealing a tall figure.
"Are you alright, miss?"
Elaris blinked, adjusting to the sudden clarity. Her gaze met the eyes of a strikingly handsome, green-haired young man. It was their special encounter.
"I-I... Yes," she stammered, a faint blush dusting her cheeks.
"Good." He gently let her down, offering a small, confident smile. "The name's Mikare Chamak. And you're welcome."
"E-Elaris Faeril," she replied nervously.
"A spirit elf, huh?" he muttered, studying her for a moment before smirking. "How about it, why don't you join my team?"
"R-really?" She muttered.
"Ofcourse, I'm in need of a teammates too. So if you don't mind..."
"..." She nodded.
"Great, I'll fill you in the details later–"
The two guys who had been fighting over her snapped out of their daze.
"Who the hell do you think you are? Trying to steal our recruit?!" they demanded, puffing up their chests.
Mikare raised an eyebrow, unimpressed. "Haven't you two caused enough trouble already?" He then gestured behind them. "Oh, look. It seems like the teachers are here now."
As the red-haired guy and his rival stiffened in realization, Mikare simply turned away and walked off, completely unbothered. "Make sure to be obedient during questioning." He warned the boys.
"Hey, don't try to change the subject—"
For the briefest moment, our eyes met. Then, just as quickly, he disappeared into the crowd.
The teachers arrived, immediately scolding the two troublemakers before taking them away. With a series of complex incantations, they repaired the damaged building using recovery magic.
And just like that, the two rivals lost their recruiting battle.
So much effort for naught.